27 pages • 54 minutes read
Neil GaimanThe Sleeper and the Spindle
Fiction | Graphic Novel/Book | YA | Published in 2014A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
"The Sleeper and the Spindle" by Neil Gaiman is a loose retelling of "Sleeping Beauty" featuring two unnamed reimagined characters, intertwined with Snow White elements. The plot follows a queen and three dwarves who journey to a neighboring kingdom plagued by a sleeping sickness that began with a cursed princess. The queen delays her wedding and embarks on an adventure to rescue the kingdom.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Neil Gaiman's The Sleeper and the Spindle reimagines classic fairy tales with a dark twist, receiving praise for its lyrical prose and striking illustrations by Chris Riddell. Readers appreciate its empowering feminist themes and originality. However, some found the narrative too brief and wished for deeper character development. Overall, an enchanting and thought-provoking read.
Who Should Read The Sleeper and the Spindle?
A reader who appreciates Neil Gaiman's The Sleeper and the Spindle would enjoy imaginative retellings of classic fairy tales with dark, novel twists. Fans of Gaiman will also likely appreciate Gregory Maguire's Wicked and Philip Pullman's His Dark Materials series. Ideal for those who enjoy fantasy literature with strong, inventive storytelling and gothic undertones.
RecommendedReading Age
12-18yearsLexile Level
790LBook Details
Fantasy
Fairy Tale / Folklore
Emotions/Behavior: Memory
Emotions/Behavior: Revenge
Identity: Femininity